Hair Loss During Pregnancy

There are many reasons for hair loss and what can cause it – we lose about 100 strands a day as resting hair falls out and new hair grows in its place. Hair loss during pregnancy usually happens after the birth due to the fluctuation of hormone levels, and this excessive shedding is common in many new mothers. Have a look at some of the reasons why you may experience hair fall during pregnancy and what you can do about it…

Hair Loss During Pregnancy and Why it Happens

Diet

When you’re pregnant your body provides additional nutrients for your growing baby – sometimes to your detriment. Anaemia due to lack of iron can quickly lead to hair loss, as can not eating enough protein, and an insufficient intake of certain vitamins and minerals.

Medical issues

Diabetes, fungal infections, and medications taken to treat high blood pressure and depression can cause hair loss during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you believe it’s related to a medical problem or illness, and check that no harm will be done to your baby whilst you’re taking any prescribed medicines.

Hormonal changes

Telogen effluvium is the medical term for the excessive shedding of hair caused by hormonal changes associated with your pregnancy. Your normal hair growth cycle becomes totally disorganised – during pregnancy hair will be thicker and fuller, and then around three months after the birth hair fall may occur.

Reproductive causes

Hair loss can also happen due to stopping birth control methods, or because of miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion. The polycystic ovarian syndrome is another hormonal imbalance that can cause hair to fall out.

How to Reduce Hair Loss After Delivery?

There are several things you can do to ensure your hair stays healthy during and after pregnancy and these include:

  • Eating a diet full of fruits and vegetables which contain antioxidants that provide protection for hair follicles, and encourage hair growth
  • Supplementing your diet with Vitamin B complex, Vitamins C and E, Zinc and iron after consulting your doctor
  • Using shampoos and conditioners that contain biotin and silica
  • Avoiding blow dryers and curling tongs set at high temperatures
  • Not brushing hair when wet and using gentle detangling combs
  • Leaving hair as natural as possible without pulling into tight ponytails, braids, and weaves that can stress and pull hair
  • Trying herbal remedies like aloe vera extracts and alma that can be massaged into the scalp to strengthen hair and prevent loss
  • Meditating to avoid stress and mood swings that can contribute to hair fall

Significant Hair Loss

If your hair loss after pregnancy is causing bald spots and hair isn’t re-growing you may need to consider alternative treatment. Non-surgical hair replacement for women is the perfect solution if you’re battling with post-pregnancy hair loss – be sure to find a salon that specialises in hair replacement systems such as Cochrane & Co.

Modern hair loss and replacement techniques include systems made of breathable, micro-thin artificial skin implanted with high-grade human hair. You’ll get a natural colour match and a style that can be cut to suit you. You can play sports, swim, and shower with this durable hair loss solution that lasts for up to three months.